How to Plan Your 1-Day Emperor’s Tour in Beijing: Forbidden City, Beihai Park, Jingshan and Hutong

Beijing, the capital city of China, has a long and fascinating history. With its rich heritage and culture, it is no wonder that it is one of the most visited cities in the world. The 1-Day Emperor’s Tour in Beijing is a perfect way to experience this city’s rich history. This tour covers some of the most famous and significant landmarks, including the Forbidden City, Jingshan Park, Beihai Park, and Hutong. This guided tour, offered by Viator, is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of the city, its culture, and its history. In this article, we will guide you on how to plan your 1-Day Emperor’s Tour in Beijing.

Overview of the Tour

The 1-Day Emperor’s Tour in Beijing is a full-day guided tour that takes you to some of the most popular landmarks in the city. The tour lasts for approximately 8 hours and includes visits to the Forbidden City, Beihai Park, Jingshan Park, and Hutong. During the tour, you will learn about the rich history and culture of Beijing, as well as its contributions to China’s development. Your English-speaking guide will provide you with insightful commentary throughout the tour, giving you an in-depth understanding of the city’s most significant attractions.

What’s Included in the Tour

The 1-Day Emperor’s Tour in Beijing is an all-inclusive experience. The tour price includes lunch, private transportation, all fees, and taxes. You can choose to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from your hotel. The tour starts at 8:30 AM and ends back at the meeting point. The meeting point for the tour is in Beijing, China, and pickup is available from hotels within the 5 Rings area.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour starts with a visit to the Forbidden City, which is the largest and most well-preserved imperial palace complex in the world. The palace was the political center of China for over 500 years, and its architecture and artifacts provide a glimpse into the country’s rich history. You will discover the emperors’ lives, families, and governance from the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Afterwards, the tour takes you to Beihai Park, which was also an imperial palace garden in the past. This park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is famous for its beautiful lake and the white dagoba that towers over the park. Your guide will provide you with insights into how the royals used the park.

Then, you will visit Jingshan Park, which offers one of the best views of the city. The park was once part of the Forbidden City’s private gardens before it was open to the public. The park’s hill offers a panoramic view of the city’s rooftops, giving you a glimpse of the city from a different perspective.

Finally, you will visit Hutong, a historic residential area in Beijing. You will have a chance to take a rickshaw ride through the narrow streets, and interact with local families. This experience gives you a glimpse of traditional Beijing lifestyle.

Additional Information

This is a private tour, so only your group will participate. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infant seats are available. Most travelers can participate in the tour, and no special skills are required. Confirmation of your booking will be received at the time of booking.

Final Thoughts and Booking

A 1-Day Emperor’s Tour in Beijing is an excellent way to experience the city’s rich history and culture. The tour covers some of the most famous and significant landmarks in the city, including the Forbidden City, Beihai Park, Jingshan Park, and Hutong. The tour is all-inclusive and includes lunch, private transportation, all fees, and taxes. Book the tour here to visit Beijing’s must-see scenic spots for a full day, and enjoy cultural insights offered by an informative guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beijing

Beijing is a city filled with history, culture, and beauty. As the capital of China, it’s a popular destination for tourists from around the world. However, before you pack your bags and head to Beijing, it’s important to have all of your questions answered. In this blog post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about Beijing.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Beijing?

The best time to visit Beijing is in the fall (September to November) or spring (April to June). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds altogether, visiting during the winter months (December to February) can be a good option, but be prepared for colder temperatures.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Beijing?

Beijing is a city filled with attractions, but some of the must-visit ones include:

• The Great Wall of China
• The Forbidden City
• The Temple of Heaven
• The Summer Palace
• Tiananmen Square

3. How do I get around Beijing?

Beijing has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and taxis. The subway is the most convenient and affordable option for tourists, with signs in both Mandarin and English. Taxis are also readily available, but be sure to have your destination written in Chinese characters to avoid any language barriers.

4. What should I eat in Beijing?

Beijing is known for its delicious food, with some of the must-try dishes including:

• Peking duck
• Mongolian hot pot
• Zhajiangmian (noodles with soybean paste)
• Jiaozi (dumplings)
• Baozi (steamed buns)

5. What should I know about Chinese culture before visiting Beijing?

Chinese culture is deeply rooted in tradition and is something that should be respected while visiting Beijing. Some tips to keep in mind include:

• Removing your shoes when entering someone’s home
• Bowing or nodding to show respect
• Avoiding public displays of affection
• Using two hands when receiving or offering an object
• Not discussing politics or religion

6. Is Beijing safe for tourists?

Beijing is considered a safe city for tourists. However, it’s important to use common sense and take precautions such as keeping your valuables in a safe place and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

7. Do I need a visa to visit Beijing?

Yes, a visa is required for most visitors to China including Beijing. The process for obtaining a visa can take several weeks, so it’s important to plan ahead.

8. What is the local currency in Beijing?

The local currency in Beijing is the Chinese yuan (CNY). ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and credit cards are accepted at most major hotels, restaurants, and shops.

9. What language is spoken in Beijing?

The official language of Beijing and China is Mandarin. However, English is becoming more widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.

10. What should I pack for my trip to Beijing?

When packing for your trip to Beijing, be sure to include comfortable shoes for walking, lightweight clothing for warm weather, a jacket for cool evenings, and a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun. You may also want to bring a reusable water bottle as tap water is not safe to drink.

Conclusion

Beijing is a remarkable city that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. By having these frequently asked questions answered, you’ll be better prepared for your trip and able to enjoy all that Beijing has to offer. Remember to plan ahead, use common sense, and respect the local culture for a safe and enjoyable stay in Beijing.